about DPG

Children and child abuse

We act for those who, as children, have experienced harm to take action against the public bodies that should have protected them – in particular social services authorities, but also the police, schools and medical professionals.

We have nationally recognised expertise in acting for children and young people and in using the law innovatively to hold public bodies to account. This includes bringing claims to require public bodies to investigate allegations of abuse, as well as securing compensation where abuse has occurred.

Many of our clients have experienced serious neglect and emotional or physical abuse and our solicitors have significant experience in adapting how they work to take account of this.

This includes providing clear initial advice about options, likely outcomes and timescales, as well as advice and guidance at each stage of the litigation process.

It also includes adopting a holistic approach of not simply focusing on claims for compensation, but also using our public law and judicial review expertise to secure appropriate support services for individuals and to require public bodies to address systemic failings.

We also advise on making claims for Criminal Injuries Compensation and, where appropriate, on claims directly against those who have abused children or otherwise caused them to come to harm.

We have a contract with the Legal Aid Agency to provide legally aided advice and representation for compensation claims related to the abuse of children, as well as related human rights claims and claims for judicial review. We may also be able to act on a no win no fee basis in appropriate cases.

We do not act for parents of children in care in disputes with social services and will signpost parents in this position to family solicitors for advice.